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A GENTLE HEART 




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A GENTLE HEART 



By 
Elizabeth Allen Satierthwait 



PUBLISHED BY 

E. A. SATTERTHWAIT 

118 Waverly Place 
Webster Groves. Missouri 






COPYRIGHT 1919 

BY 

ELIZABETH ALLEN SATTERTHWAIT 



Several of these poems are reprinted by the courtesy of 

'*Qood Housekeeping," "Little Folh" 

and "The Friend" 



PRESS OF 
INNES & SONS 
PHILADELPHIA. PA. 



m. 22 1919 



To G. B. and D. S. A. 

4 Mo. 8th, 1869—4 Mo. 8th, 1919 

The highest mountain or the deepest sea. 
The rolling prairie or the river wide, 

These things can never take away from me 
The love that lives upon the other side. 

And when the earth is budding forth again. 
We count back years to when another spring 

Two hearts as now felt the awakening joy 

Of flowers abloom and birds upon the wing. 

And brave to meet the sunshine or the shade. 
Two loving hearts turned into pathway one. 

And shared their sorrows, magnified their joys. 
Thru morning dew and in the noonday sun. 

Thou Who art the Father of us all. 

For those who thru Thy grace gave life to me 

1 thank Thee so much that I cannot speak, 

I thank Thee so much that I cannot see. 

In that dear home that they have made for us 
We ask Thy blessing on these hearts we love; 

From day to day be Thou their strength and stay; 
And bless them greatly in Thy home above. 



CONTENTS 

Pase 

Frontispiece • facing iii 

Dedication y 

PERSONAL POEMS 

The Golden Milestone 3 

The Golden Anniversary 5 

Mine 6 

"He Giveth His Beloved" Rest 7 

Birthday Verses — R. J. A 8 

Birthday Verses — E. A 10 

Passing 13 

Our Doctor 14 

A Portrait 16 

To a Friend 17 

To Dr. E. Test 18 

Granmunny's Sweetieheart 20 

For R. B. N/s Book 22 

Love Never Faileth 23 

To L. R. L 24 

To H. E. and S. M. E 25 

E. G. S.'s Cane 26 

To R. S. C 27 

OCCASIONS AND OTHER VERSE 

Class Poem — 1896 31 

Class Reunion — 1 906 34 

For the New Year 36 

Signs of the Times 38 

A Prayer 41 

Sweaters Gray 43 



Page 

Reply to William Watson's Poem 

"To America Concerning England," 1914 44 

O, These Days Our Hearts are Weary 46 

Germany Has Forgotten 47 

Keep a Smile Out Front 48 

"HOME KEEPING HEARTS ARE 
HAPPIEST" 

A Gentle Heart 53 

I Remember (a Parody) Illustrated 54 

Little Helpers (Adapted) 56 

Chopper Chops 5 7 

Break, Break, Break 58 

WITH THE CHILDREN 

A Chippy's Nest 61 

Raindrops 62 

Discipline 63 

Disobedience 64 

Quaint Faces Illustrated 66 

First Call to Breakfast 68 

Mother Speckle's Lesson 69 

All's Well That Ends Well 70 

In the Summer Time 71 

Tommy in the Country Illustrated 72 

Betty Illustrated 74 

The Apple Tree 75 

Cherries are Ripe 76 

Prod 76 

Interrupted Reveries 77 

A Pair of Japs 78 

Rolling Marbles 79 



Page 

Trials . . . . ; Illustrated 80 

Autumn Leaves 81 

Caught in a Shower 81 

The Dying Pig 82 

Father is Coming 84 

Hide the Thimble 85 

Mother's Lap Illustrated 86 

NEAR TO NATURE 

What the Snowflakes Said 89 

Song of Spring Illustrated 90 

Twilight Over the "Daisy Hill'* 91 

Little John's Sermon 92 

Lily of the Valley 94 

Glimpses of Cloudland 96 

Mackinac 100 

Our Great Atlantic 101 

A Hymn from Nature 102 

An Autumn Sunset 1 04 

Roses 1 06 

Glimpses of Blue 1 08 



PERSONAL POEMS 



THE GOLDEN MILESTONE 

G. T. and S. C. S. 
II Mo. 8th, 1860—1 1 Mo. 8th. 1910 

It was fifty years ago. 

In the pleasant autumn weather, 
Hearts with springtime overflowing 

Started out in life together. 

In a quiet, Quaker meeting. 

High and holy promise making, 

To be loving, faithful always. 
Until death each other taking. 

Bright and sunny was life's pathway, 
Happy days in goodly measure. 

Faithful friends, and merry children. 

Are rich gifts these two hearts tireasure. 

But sometimes the path was rugged. 
And sometimes the hearts were weary. 

Care and change and sorrow bringing 
Burdens heavy, shadows dreary. 

Daily duties are made lighter 

When we serve the Meek and Lowly, 
When we do them for the Master 

Common tasks are noble, holy. 

Sweet and joyous is the springtime. 
Bringing birds and leaves and flowers; 

Long, warm days come with the summer. 
Leafy shade and sudden showers. 



Autumn brings us golden weather, 
Calmer as the year grows olden; 

Rich is autumn with its fruitage, 
Royal treetops, sunsets golden. 

Golden Wedding Day so joyous 

Warms our hearts with loving greeting. 

Friendship's fires are burning brightly, 
Lingers Love tho years are fleeting. 

He Whose promises are faithful. 
Will, with constant love unshaken, 

Never leave us without comfort. 
Never let us be forsaken. 

Heaven's blessing now attend you — 
Sweet still be the old, old story — 

May the golden autumn weather 
Of your lifetime, be the glory. 



THE GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY 

R. J. and M. D. A. 

4 Mo. I3th, 1854—4 Mo. 13. 1904 

Two lives that love had drawn together, 

Two hearts that love had joined in one, 
Set bravely out to meet all weather 

When brightly shone the morning sun; 
And spring and day were sweet with birdsong, 

And earth was fresh with early dew; 
What matter if the path be rugged 

When love is young and hearts are true. 

Two lives that love had drawn together. 

Two hearts that love had bound in one, 
Passed hand in hand thru summer weather 

When warmly shone the noonday sun; 
And here the path is marked with blessings, 

And now is rough beneath their feet; 
But joys are doubled, sorrows softened. 

When hearts are true and faith complete. 

Two lives that love had bound together. 

Two hearts that love had bound in one, 
Pass gently down life's slope together. 

When slanting shines the setting sun; 
And golden is their glowing sunset, 

And theirs sincere respect and love. 
And humbly trust we golden glory 

Awaits them in a home above. 



MINE' 

Heavenly Father gave to me 
Loving comradeship in thee, 
Could there richer blessing be? 

Hearts in unison that beat, 
Friendship that becomes more sweet, 
Love that groweth more complete. 

Sweetest love and faith that be. 
All that is bound up in thee — 
Only God could give to me. 



"HE GIVETH HIS BELOVED" REST 

R. S. 

A loved one in our household — one to Mother nearest- 

Has walked with us a pleasant way, 
A sharer in our joys or cares or in our sorrows, 

A sharer in our work or play. 

And warm of heart, a gentle nature, loving, clinging. 

To all she loved along the years, 
A ready sympathy to help with others' burdens, 

A tender word to dry their tears. 

A ministering spirit, one of those anointed. 

To lead us toward the heavenly ways. 
In love encouraging the weak, and often turning 

Our thoughts and hearts to prayer and praise. 

A loving part of home beyond my recollection. 

But now her home is with the Blest, 
For He Who is our God and Guide now and forever. 

To His beloved giveth rest. 



BIRTHDAY VERSES 

R. J. A. 

5 Mo. 16th. 1897 

Just a tiny token 

Of my love for thee — 
Joyous be thy birthday, 

Bright the whole year be! 

Now all earth is teeming 
With the lovely spring. 

Gentle rain and sunshine 
Thousand beauties bring. 

Happy, sweet bird voices 

Filling all the air, 
Opening leaf and blossom 

Making earth so fair. 

But the year is hastening. 
Joyous spring must go. 

And its softness deepens 
Into summer's glow. 

Dewy, golden mornings, 
Nature full of praise. 

Sweet, refreshing breezes, 
And such long, long days. 

Burning, sultry weather, 
Leafy cool and shade, 

Almost vocal stillness 
In the forest slade. 



8 



Thunder-storm and tempest, 
Sudden summer showers, 

But they only hasten 

Greater wealth of flowers. 

Then the autumn cometh — 
Fruit trees bending low, 

Treetops gently waving 
Royal, rosy glow. 

Mild the days and pleasant, 
Sunsets grand and rare, 

Keenly bright the evenings, 
Crisp and frosty air. 

Cooler than the summer. 
Calmer than the spring. 

Richly golden weather 
Doth the autumn bring. 

Is life*s summer waning. 
Passing swift away. 

Joining joyous spring-time? 
These can never stay. 

But that One Eternal, 

Who is ever near. 
He can make the autumn 

* 'Glory of the Year." 



BIRTHDAY VERSES 

To E. A. 

9 Mo. 29th, 1900 

I sat alone at night-time 

When all the trees were still, 

And all the air was silent 
Save insect voices shrill. 

The clouds that nearly covered 
The sky throughout the day 

Had, with the autumn evening, 
Passed quietly away. 

And in the deep, blue heavens 
All shining wondrous bright. 

The countless stars were making 
A glory of the night. 

Yet with such teaching 'round me 
My thoughts were otherwise, 

And for a time I lingered 
With such unseeing eyes! 

My thoughts were of the dear one 
Whose milestones mark fourscore, 

With wishes, though our love be great, 
That we might show it more. 

For we have felt the sweetness 

Of love so firm and true, 
And sympathy so tender. 

As drops of heavenly dew. 



10 



But then if we are willing 

To give the tiny mite. 
We may send loving greeting 

And help the day be bright. 

Then to my mind came sweetly 
The Father's promise blest, 

**My presence shall go with thee 
And I will give thee rest." 

And I have penned it for thee. 
It seemed so gently sweet. 

With promise of safe resting 
At thy own Master's feet. 

The life that seems most quiet 
Has often greatest strength. 

The bird of strong endurance 
Can fly the greatest length. 

Sometimes the clouds may shield us 
From too much heat of sun, 

But in the cool of evening 
They scatter one by one. 

Were it not for the night-time 
The stars would never show, 

Our earth must be in darkness 
To make their brightness glow. 



11 



Some hearts have many virtues 
Which show not half so well 

Till they in depth of shadow 
The Master's glory tell. 

And so the quiet night-time, 

And sky from clouds grown free, 

And stars set in the blueness, 
Each made me think of thee. 

And with thy sky all glowing 
And clearest in the west. 

His presence shall go with thee 
And He will give thee rest. 



12 



PASSING 

The day crept slowly by — 

I scarce can tell 
Whether the bright sun shone 

Or raindrops fell; 
For hope and fear were one, 

And love was strong — - 
And now I only know 

The day was long. 

And when the evening came, 

I cannot say 
Whether the stars came out 

At close of day; 
For tho each thought was prayer, 

We dumbly knelt, 
Too stricken e'en to know 

The grief we felt. 

And when the midnight came, 

I never knew 
Whether the night was still 

Or chill wind blew; 
For then the veil grew thin — 

I could not see — 
And this poor heart of mine 

Went up with thee. 

1904. 



13 



OUR DOCTOR 

Without, the trees are gray and bare, 
The ground is white with snow, 

The winter air is sharp and cold 
With winter winds that blow. 

But sunlight thru the window streams 

Aslant across my bed, 
And fragrance sweet from lovely flowers 

Thru all my room is shed. 

Altho *tis still I do not hear 

The footstep in the hall 
As our good Doctor steps within 

To make his morning call. 

A cheery greeting comes with him, 

He sits beside my bed. 
With skillful eye he notes his case 

Tho little may be said. 

And then he writes out puzzling names 
You scarce could learn to spell. 

Of things the druggists fix in shape 
To help me to get well. 

Thru storm or wind, thru cold or heat. 

On sunny days or fair. 
The faithful Doctor makes his rounds 

To those who need his care. 



14 



And whether they be rich or poor, 

Or far from what is good. 
Or if the silver cord be loosed — 

He hath done what he could. 

A kindly face, a quiet voice. 
Or tone of mild command, 

A skillful eye, a gentle touch. 

And strong of heart and hand. 

Where need of strength or healing is. 

His energies are bent. 
As to the sick and suffering ones 

The Good Physician went. 

And he who soweth kindly deeds 

His reaping is his gain — 
And blessed are the merciful 

For mercy they obtain. 

And when our Doctor's work is done 
And earth is growing dim. 

Then may the shining gates of gold 
Swing open wide for him. 

1904. 



15 



A PORTRAIT 

Dear little face upturned and sweet 

What seest thou afar, 
Turned toward thy mother in the skies 

Where happy angels are? 

Thy darkened eyes, can they still see 

What ours cannot discern? 
Dost find some help we cannot give 

However we may yearn? 

O baby eyes of sad appeal 

Uplifted to the light! 
We can but give thee loving care 

So helpless we with sight. 

'Twould seem so sweet a baby face 
Must draw some blessing down. 

Of such the Heavenly Kingdom is 
And worthy heavenly crown. 

Dear little child of tender years 
Whose earthly eyes are dim. 

The Gentle Shepherd be thy guide 
And keep thee close to Him. 



16 



TO A FRIEND 

M. E. B. 

When spring was trying to return 
And set the blossoms free. 

Carnation flower and. feathery fern 
Came to our door for me. 

As blossoms spring when sun is sent, 
As grass greens after shower — 

A gentle lady came and went 
And left behind a flower. 

A graceful gift this blossom sweet 
Where grace and sweetness blend. 

My thanks sincere 'tis surely mete 
I send my neighbor friend. 

I would that I might scatter flowers 

As through this life I go, 
For there are many, many hours 

When this world needs them so. 



17 



TO DR. E. TEST 

Golden is this latest milestone 

Friend of ours today. 
Like the Indian summer flowers 

We would have thee stay. 

Tho thy hair the winter touches 

With his frosty art, 
Summer in thy face is sunny. 

Summer in thy heart. 

Thine has been the work of guiding 

Others than thine own, 
Youthful minds from many places 

Have thy teaching known. 

Many hearts to thee are turning 

With respect and love; 
May the Heavenly Master grant thee 

Blessing from above. 

Wise and upright, happy-hearted, 

Hence it is that we 
Varied age and little children 

Feel at home with thee. 

As we pass along life's highway 

Adding year to year. 
May our lives among our fellows 

Like thine scatter cheer. 



18 



Loving greeting now we send thee — 

May thy birthday be 
Bright and happy, hopeful, peaceful- 

This we wish for thee. 

Golden be thy sunset pathway 

Down along the years. 
And her presence Heaven grant thee 

Who still loves and cheers. 

1916. 



19 



GRANMUNNY'S 
SWEETIEHEART 

"Who is coming?" Grandma calls 

From the big old-fashioned chair, 
Tho the voices in the hall 

She could tell you anywhere. 

"Who is coming?" pleasantly 

Calls the loving voice once more 

As a child expectantly 

Stands a moment at the door. 

Then a sudden rush across 

Where Grandmother's arms stretch wide, 
And upon Grandmother's lap 

Drops a little face to hide. 

Grandma asks with gentle art 

"Who is this?" in pleasant wise; 
And — "Granmunny's sweetieheart!" 
, Quick a child voice replies. 

Then all merry smiles and coy, 

Then a loving hug and kiss; 
What a darling little boy I 

What a dear Grandma is this! 

Tiny lad of summers two 

Is "Granmunny's sweetieheart," 

Sunny face and eyes of blue 
Give the picture but in part. 



20 



Youthful heart of seventy years — 
In the ancient rocker there. 

Knowing much of smiles and tears — 
Whitened is the soft, smooth hair. 

Gentle face where trust doth dwell 
Gives this picture but in part — 

Children love the dear heart w^ell I 
Children's children's SweetieheartI 

1915. 



21 



For R. B. N.'s Book 

A precious gift came from above, 
A little child for us to love. 

The chubby face with sparkling eyes, 
Our hearts it touches tenderwise. 

Dear Heavenly Father, bend Thine ear. 
We have a prayer for Thee to hear. 

This little heart please fill with joy, 
A merry heart give to our boy. 

These tiny hands that cling to mine, 
Their work, we want it noble, fine. 

These little feet so firm and strong. 
Be swift to turn from what is wrong. 

And when he reaches man's estate, 
Do Thou in goodness make him great. 

And as he treads the paths of men. 
We shall think gently back again, 

On this Thy gift, and thank Thee well. 
Far more than ever words can tell. 

This soul of Thine some day please claim 
All pure and white as when it came. 

1918. 



22 



LOVE NEVER FAILETH 

In dreams we see them as in days gone by. 
The loved ones who have gone to hve on high ; 

And one whose friendship was worth more than gold. 
In dreams she came as in the days of old. 

I saw her coming — I can see her still. 

As walking quickly she came down the hill. 

The way we walk down hill yet holding back; 
Her dress warm brown, her beaver hat of black; 

And smiling pleasantly the while she tries 
To keep the sun from shining in her eyes. 

I ran to meet her as in days of yore, 

And clasped her closely ere she reached the door. 

I cannot say all that it meant to me. 
Her lovingness again to feel and see; 

There was so very much to feel and say 
Since that bleak time when she had gone away. 

*'And now I must go back again" she sighed, 
**I cannot let thee go again" I cried. 

Reluctant, tho her face as bright as dawn, 

I wept — and thus, awoke — and she was gone. 

But sweet that little visit which I had. 
For tho the heart within me still was sad, 

I felt a comfort sweet, and more of strength 
To know, when days are weary in their length. 

That from those realms which lie beyond our ken. 
She still had loved and come to me again. 

23 



TOL. R.L. 

While raindrops fall on budding earth 
The cheery robins love to sing, 

And yester eve thru storm and hail 
There came to us a breath of spring. 

A grateful message to our friend 
To whom the springtime life is fair, 

For wealth of lovely lilac bloom 

And outdoor book for us to share. 

The kindly deed, the kindly thought, 

there are very many hours 

When this world needs such gentle things- 

1 would that I might scatter flowers I 



24 



TO H. E. AND S. M. E. 

O here's to the dear little, new little daughter I 

Best goods we are told come in packages small, 

So is not the baby the best of us all? 
Tho bringing a wealth both of care and of pleasure, 
And tho worth her seven pounds in rich, golden treasure, 
The love that she brings is beyond any measure. 

And now to her parents a message of cheer. 

Our loving good wishes for many a year, 
And here's to the dear little, new little daughter! 

1918. 



25 



E. G. S;S CANE 

4 Mo. 10. 1905 

I grew beside a little brook 

Within a shady wood, 
I was a little cedar tree 

And never straightly stood. 

My trunk was knotty, brown and red, 
And bent along the ground. 

And for me through those early years 
No special use was found. 

I loved within my shady home 
To hear the wilds birds sing. 

And see the little flowers that grew 
Below thy little spring. 

But now so straight and firm I've grown 

My use is very plain, 
And if I may go home with thee 

I'll serve thee as a cane. 



26 



TO. R. S. C. 

At Berryhill we have no chickens. 
Our little plot with plant life thickens; 
But she of "smothered chicken" fame 
Brought us a chicken when she came; 
Because we had for recreation 
A party in the girls* vacation. 

A thing I never did before 
Attempt in culinary lore. 
This little chicken 1 did "smother" — 
And it was good as was the other. 
Thy bag contains no bulky treasure. 
But thanks and love in fullest measure. 



27 



OCCASIONS AND OTHER 
VERSE 



29 



CLASS POEM 
1896 

In an orchard old and sheltered 

Where all earth is bright and fair, 
Teeming with spring's charming freshness 

Tiny trees are set with care. 
Buttercups and daisies nodding 

All around them in the grass, 
And above fly birds of summer 

Ever singing as they pass. 

Very slow at first their growing, 

Almost seeming nothing worth. 
But their tiny roots were spreading 

Deep within the moist, dark earth; 
Gathering strength for future growing, 

Storing food in fibres small. 
That will aid in upward climbing 

And make branches strong and tall. 

Summer days brought rain and sunshine- 
Then the slender saplings grew 

Ever spreading out and upward 
Toward the Heaven's lofty blue. 

And the master of the orchard 

Watched their growing day by day. 

Saw how tiny bud and leaflet 

Lengthened into branch and spray. 



31 



Spared them not a thorough pruning — 

Useless branches trimmed away, 
That he might increase their value 

Yet their progress not delay; 
Cut off all the little suckers 

That were starting from the root, 
That more sap might fill the branches, 

And make finer, sweeter fruit. 

Every year more strength imparted, 

And the seasons circled round, 
With their gifts of storm and sunshine. 

Till our pleasant earth was crowned 
With a happy, glorious spring-time 

When one morning fair and bright. 
Blossoms, fresh and sweet, unfolded 

Softly to the sun's warm light. 

Every twig is tipped with blossoms. 

Petals white float on the breeze, 
Cups of fragrance pour their sweetness 

From the laden orchard trees. 
Well remembereth the master 

Trimming branch and tilling root. 
And with joy he now beholdeth 

Fairy promises of fruit. 



32 



And when summer days are waning, 

Will again the master roam, 
And the fruit that is perfected 

Will make glad his harvest home. 
So methought we might unravel 

Something that real good might teach; 
Is there in the trees no lesson 

That to us may truly reach? 

Here within our sheltered orchard 

WeVe been growing day by day. 
Ours has been the pruning, training. 

In the right and better way. 
Now our youth is bright with blossoms 

And our lives are in their spring; 
O, that to ripe fruits' perfection 

We may all our blossoms bring! 

Should life's path be marked with trouble 

May we only stronger grow. 
As it tends the trees to strengthen 

When storms rage and fierce winds blow. 
May we lift toward Heaven strong branches, 

Firmly fasten deep our root; 
For we know some day our Master 

Will be looking for the fruit. 



33 



CLASS REUNION 
1906 

Once again a lovely springtime, 

Once again a summer fair, 
Earth is full of sunny sweetness, 

Birds and blossoms everywhere. 
Ten short years of toil and pleasure. 

Ten long years their course have run 
Learning lessons in Life's school-room. 

Till we say our 'ten times one.* 

Not to heights of wealth or power 

Have we climbed along the way, 
Ours the golden summer weather, 

While the sun shines, making hay. 
Some of us have known of sorrow, 

Shadows on our lives have come. 
Hearts that we have loved and cherished 

Passed to their Eternal Home. 

Westtown has not been forgotten — 

Joyously we meet once more 
Where our faithful Alma Mater 

Welcomes as in days of yore. 
Thru her woodland paths we wander 

Where the light and shadow falls, 
Happy, once again we linger 

In her well-remembered halls. 



34 



Gladly do we leave behind us 

Human worries, human ills, 
Lay aside the things that fret us. 

Lift our eyes unto the hills. 
He who slumbers not, nor sleepeth, 

Watches over sea and land, 
Nature's God shall be our Keeper, 

Help and guide on every hand. 

In the woodland and the meadow. 

In the sun and stars that shine. 
Gentle teaching, gentle healing. 

Point us to a love divine. 
Little birds of little value. 

Trustful, soar on highest wing. 
Are not anxious for the morrow, 

Gratefully His praises sing. 

As the sunlight is reflected 

In the blossoms upturned face, 
May there be in us reflected 

Somewhat of the Master's grace. 
May we take whate'er befall us 

As the meek and lowly flowers. 
Smiling brightly in the sunshine. 

Gently bending in the showers. 



35 



FOR THE NEW YEAR 

What will make thee happy 
On this New Year Day, 

When the air is chilly 
And the skies are gray? 

Will the New Year greeting 

Of a loving friend 
Keep thee bright and cheery 

To the next year end? 

Will the gifts and wishes 
That today bring cheer, 

Last thru all the seasons 
Of the opening year? 

What will keep "the happy" 

Ever in thy heart, 
If thy path be shadowed 

And bright hopes depart? 

Loving friends are blessings. 
Kindly words they say, 

These are surely comforts. 
Helps along our way. 

But our greatest blessing 
Is our Father's love. 

Our most precious treasure, 
Sent us from above. 



36 



This can make us happy 
Thru the whole long year, 

Make our love so perfect 
That it knows no fear. 

Faith must be our portion 

All the way along; 
Faith in Him will strengthen 

As our love grows strong. 

These can make us happy, 
These will bring us peace; 

And with peace indwelling, 
Love and faith increase. 

Loving, faithful, peaceful, 
Tho thy path be rough. 

Thou canst trust Who knoweth 
When it is enough. 

Bruised, but not broken — 
Thou canst surely stand, 

One there is to strengthen 
Who will hold thy hand. 

May each New Year bring us 
Faith and peace and love — 

These are gifts most precious. 
Gifts from God above. 



Zl 



SIGNS OF THE TIMES 

Trees are gray and leafless, 
Winter winds are here; 

Christmas days are coming 
Bringing Christmas cheer. 

Thru the fields and woodlands, 

Sturdy little boys 
Gather trees and holly 

For the Christmas joys. 

In the crowded City, 

All along the street. 
Little sprigs of holly 

Mark the coats you meet. 

In the country village 
Little girls and boys 

Linger by shop windows 
With their pretty toys. 

City full of people — 
People everywhere — 

Streets and stores and trolleys 
Have no room to spare. 

Turkeys in the markets. 
Candies in the shops, 

Stores are full of Christmas 
To their very tops. 



38 



Dozens of Kris Kingles 

Break the old time laws! 

Why are there so many? 
Who is Santa Claus? 

Who fills all the stockings 
Of the girls and boys, 

Loading them with good things, 
Loading them with toys? 

Who brings dolls and playthings 

When nobody sees? 
Who loads down the branches 

Of the Christmas trees? 

Not the King of Fairies 
From some frozen clime — 

But the kindly spirit 
Of the Christmas time I 

Christmas surely coming! 

You can't help but know 
By the kindly feeling 

Everywhere you go. 

All the tired people. 

Cheery keep, and bright. 

It is too near Christmas 
Not to be polite! 



39 



In the crowded stations. 
Who goes out before, 

In his rush and hurry 

Holds the swinging door. 

Many people passing 
Drop in grimy hands, 

Pennies for the Christmas, 
Where some beggar stands. 

Christmas spirit this is — 
Hearts are full of love — 

This the true Christ Spirit 
Sent us from above. 



40 



A PRAYER 

Father, how much longer 
Must sorrow bend me low? 

If it but brought Thee glory 
Then I would have it so. 

Sin in this world aboundeth, 
So much of wrong we see! 

O, keep me from the evil 
And let me walk with Thee. 

O, in this time of anguish 

If I could only trace 
Thy "perfect strength in weakness" 

And Thy * 'sufficient grace." 

1 am so weak and weary — 

If I could only rest 
In sweetest of submission 
Upon Thy loving breast. 

My faith has been so shattered — 

If I could only feel 
Pure prayer to Thee ascending 

And more than dumbly kneel. 

If I could only praise Thee 

When I am crushed and sore — 

If only all this suffering 

Would make me love Thee more. 



41 



I am so very sinful — 

O wilt Thou not forgive? 

And purify and cleanse me 
That I may with Thee live, 

In blessed, heavenly mansions, 
Where 'tis forever day, 

And Thou, O precious Saviour, 
Wilt wipe all tears away. 



42 



SWEATERS GRAY 

Go sweaters gray from out our hand 

And whether it shall be 
That you shall stay in our dear land 

Or go across the sea, 
Protect good, honest, noble hearts, 

Wherever you may roam, 
True hearts that love our Stars and Stripes 

To whom U. S. is home. 

Tho you are but of humble gray. 

Keep ever warm and true 
Brave hearts that love our colors gay 

The red, the white, the blue. 
In "No Man's Land" or on the sea 

Protect where'er you roam 
True hearts that love our Stars and Stripes 

To whom U. S. is home. 



43 



REPLY TO WILLIAM 
WATSON'S POEM 

"To America Concerning England" 
1914 

Though England be the "mother land" 
Our Father is the "Prince of Peace," 

And he has said "Put up thy sword" 
Let strife and warfare cease! 

And should thy one-time daughter hold 
A nobler, greater faith than thine. 

And as a truly Christian land 
Her mother far outshine; 

And should she grasp beyond thy reach 
And lend a neutral, helping hand, 

O chide her not who seeks to be 
A truly Christian land I 

Has England not a grateful heart 

For countless blessings on her piled? 

Counts it not wealth that she is given 
Such blessing in her child? 

O England! plead on bended knee 

Before the Father of us all 
To make of thee a Christian land, 

And let thy weapons fall! 

And pray that one-time child of thine 
May keep the place she tries to hold, 

A faith her mother failed to reach. 
Worth more than lands and gold! 



44 



In thy first duty thou hast failed — 
On England's name another blot! 

Our first allegiance is to Christ 
Else Christians we are not. 

No war can settle nations' strife, 
No war make bitter feelings cease. 

O pray that strength to us be given 
To follow Prince of Peace. 

O let the "King of Glory" in. 

Who made the world and rules the wave; 
His crown the only crown divine. 

And mighty still to save. 

Let His Good Spirit rule our world. 
And let all strife and warfare cease; 

Let nations clasp each other's hand 
And on the earth be peace! 



45 



O, THESE DAYS OUR 
HEARTS ARE WEARY 

O these days our hearts are weary, 

Weary of the war; 
Little children crying, crying, 

Wondering what it's for. 
O these days our hearts are weary, 

Weary of the strife; 
Christian people sorrowing, sorrowing. 

At the waste of life. 
O these days our hearts are weary. 

And our eyes are dim; 
God in Heaven grieving, grieving — 

We've forgotten Him I 

10th Mo. 1917. 



46 



GERMANY HAS FORGOTTEN 

God's eye is never sleeping — 

He has seen the wreck and pillage of the towns in Belgian land. 
And the sufferings of the aged at the cruel German's hand. 
And the torture and the evil that the women have endured, 
And the little children ! not by youth or innocence secured — 
And the torture and the slaughter of the fathers, brothers, sons. 
All who tried to shield their loved ones from the violence of the Huns- 
But Germany has forgotten her Lord ! 

God's eye is never sleeping — 

He has seen the ruthless plunder all along the German lines, 
And the one-time peaceful waters loaded with destroying mines ; 
He has seen unwarned and helpless thousands scattered on the w^ave ; 
He has seen the Lusitania sinking to her w^atery grave ; 
He has seen the firing squad at daybreak by the prison w^alls, 
(And that shot is heard in heaven ere the martyr victim falls) — 
But Germany has forgotten her Lord ! 

God's eye is never sleeping — 

He has seen the work of centuries in cathedrals old and grand. 
Cherished by a w^orld, but shattered by the law^less German hand ; 
Thru fair France the devastation mercilessly scattered far. 
E'en to sick and w^ounded where the helping hands of mercy are ; 
He has seen the monstrous whirlpool instigated by the Huns, 
Dragging nation after nation into mourning for their sons — 
But Germany has forgotten, forgotten her Lord ! 



47 



KEEP A SMILE OUT FRONT 

However sorry you may be 

For words that you have spoken, 

Or maybe you have torn your dress, 
Or dolly's head is broken — 
Still keep a smile out front. 

When merry schoolmates forge ahead 
And you must stop to strengthen — 

Perhaps the pleasures will spread out 
Tho every task must lengthen — 
So keep a smile out front. 

And when adversity is yours 

And scarce you keep from falling 

Where others seem to fly and soar 
And you are only crawling — 
Still keep a smile out front. 

When disappointments weigh you down 
All your alertness numbing — 

There's very often something fine 
Around the corner coming — 
So keep a smile out front. 

When this great world is full of things 
That you'd rejoice in doing — 

Reflect the gladness of the sun 
Instead of frailty rueing 
And keep a smile out front. 



48 



When far across the western hills 
The sunset light is fading 

And spirit's eye looks thru the veil 
And valley that is shading — 
Then keep a smile out front. 



49 



"HOME KEEPING HEARTS 
ARE HAPPIEST" 



51 



A GENTLE HEART 

Among tall weeds and meadow grasses green. 

Dear, tiny, wild flowers blossomed all unseen, 
And thru the vale their fragrance sweet and rare 
Filled all the air. 

So in some homes we enter we can trace 

An atmosphere of love throughout the place. 
From gentle spirits flowing, full of love 
Like that above. 

So sweet the fragrance of a gentle life 

In our poor earth with sin and sorrow rife. 
The strength that in a gentle heart doth dwell 
No one can tell. 



53 




I REMEMBER 

(A Parody) 

I remember, I remember 

The kitchen light and clean, 
Where in my happy childhood days 

My Mother reigned as queen. 
And when the winter weather came. 

With snow clouds cold and gray, 
It never came a wink too soon 

Or brought too long a day. 





I remember, I remember 

On these same winter days, 
What lovely doughnuts Mother made 

Cut in such famous ways I 
We helped to fry and sugar them. 

The tiny balls and rings, 
The braids and diamonds plump and brown. 

And such like happy things. 




54 




I remember, I remember 

The little doughnut toys, 
The little girls with hoop-skirts on 

And little bow-legged boys. 
My spirit flew in feathers then 

And still is merry now, 
There never was in all the world 

A happier child I trow I 

I remember, I remember 

How high in rank they stood, 
I used to think that no one else 

Could make them half as good. 
It was a childish ignorance — 

But now 'tis joyful ken 
To know I make them most as well 

As Mother made them then. 




55 



LITTLE HELPERS 

Adapted 
Cozy little cottage, 

Cheery little wife, 
Make a deal of comfort 

Make a happy life. 

Little daily duties 

Mixed with acts of love. 
Make a happy home nest 

Lighted from above. 

Little burns and scorches, 
Stickings to the pot. 

Varied little trials 
Mar a woman's lot. 

But these little helpers 

Humble tho they be 
Keep things running smoothly 

You will all agree. 



56 



CHOPPER CHOPS 

Little heads of cabbage 
Turn to cabbage strips, 

Little white potatoes 
Turn to *tato chips. 

Fruitage of the garden. 
Produce from the shops. 

Anything you want to 
Little chopper chops. 



57 



BREAK, BREAK, BREAK 

An Adaptation 

Break, break, break. 

Another dish smashed I see! 
And I would that my tongue could utter 

The thoughts that arise in me. 

Oh the wretched, careless maid. 

That heeds not what you say! 
Oh thoughtless the maid that sings 

As soon as you turn away! 

So our very best dishes pass on 

To the ash-barrel near the back door; 

But oh for the use of a full dozen plates, 
And the dish that is no more! 

Break, break, break, 

On the rocks of the household sea! 
But the delicate grace of a dish that is gone 

Will never come back to me. 



58 



WITH THE CHILDREN 



59 



A CHIPPY'S NEST 

Once I found a tiny nest 

In a thick, green hedge, 
There were little sticks and straws 

All around the edge. 
And around the inner side 

Firm, and neatly spread. 
Was the softest lining made 

For the birdies' bed. 

It was all of children's hair 

Fine and soft as down, 
Curly, straight, and silken too. 

Golden, light and brown. 
When the summer days grew warm 

For the children's play. 
Auntie took her scissors bright 

Trimmed the curls away. 

And the thrifty mother bird 

Thought the trimmings prime. 
Found the little people's hair 

Cut off just in time. 
In the early summer days 

Mother Chippy's head 
Peeped above the baby birds 

From that cozy bed. 



61 



RAINDROPS 

When the rain comes pouring down 
All about us in the town, 
Making rippling water sheets 
On the pavements, in the streets. 
Have you seen the ducks that go 
Fluttering, spluttering to and fro? 

Teenty weenty ducklings they. 
Neither white or brown or gray. 
But the color of the dew 
When the light is shining through. 
And along the street they go 
Hurrying, scurrying row on row. 

On the level walk and street 
Where the raindrops firmly beat. 
Each big drop that strikes the ground 
Rises upward with a bound. 
Makes a tiny duck to go 
For a moment to and fro. 

Each great drop that dashes so 
Strikes the water hard below. 
Cuts a lively little dash 
Making quite a little splash, 
Joins a lot of ducks that go 
Hopping, jumping, row on row. 



62 



When there comes a shower of rain 
Beating hard on window pane, 
Lots and lots of ducklings meet, 
Chase each other in the street. 
Flocks and crowds of ducks will go 
Plunging, splashing to and fro. 



DISCIPLINE 

A little ant 

Once said "I sha*n'tl" 
Her brother said "I won't!" 

Quite filled with grief. 

To get relief. 
Their mother said "Oh don't I' 



63 



DISOBEDIENCE 

It was a summer morning fair 

And sweet and cool the morning air; 

So early yet that sparkling dew 

Was making earth look fresh and new. 

The birds were singing early songs, 
And ants ran all about in throngs. 

Such stacks and stacks of sand they found 
Below the pavement in the ground. 

They made their tunnels, curved their hills. 
And built their towers with right good wills. 

But as the sun rose in the sky 
And people now were passing by, 

The ants all went down in the ground 
Where they keep busy working round; 

For this is something certain true 
That all good ants must learn to do. 

But one small chap with toss of head 
Then turning to his mother said: 

*Tm going up again to play 
Because it will not rain today. 

" I think it's very botherskite 

That we just play at morn and night. 



64 



*'If you old folks would go away, 
We little ones might play all day." 

His mother then with great concern 
Told him some wise things he must learn; 

But he was sure she did not know 
How very safe it was to go 

Up on the pavement in the sun, 
And run about and have some fun. 

He did not fear the great, big men — 
So he ran up and out again. 

Now little ants and children too 
Should do what mothers wish them to. 

Just then the milkman came along. 
And whistling merrily a song. 

He did not see the tiny thing 

As from his team he gave a spring; 

The ant was scared and couldn't squeal — 
The milkman crushed him with his heel! 



65 




QUAINT FACES 

When the early summer weather 
Brings a wealth of leafy trees, 

And the fields are white with daisies 
Gaily nodding in the breeze; 

And the little people wander 
O'er the hillsides in the sun, 

Hats and aprons full of daisies. 
Growing almost by the ton; 

When you bring bouquets to mammas, 
Stems scarce longer than your hand. 

With a few, fine, long ones, heavy 
With a pile of roots and sand; 

When you have so much of pleasure 
Making wreaths and horseshoes true. 

Threading yards and yards of daisies — 
Make some queer, old women too. 

Find fresh daisies, white and yellow, 
And we'll make some comic fays. 

Clip the white off with your scissors 
Leaving just two perfect rays, 



66 



And a tiny edge of whiteness 

Like a little frill of lace. 
For the eyes, nose, mouth and glasses, 

Mark with ink the yellow face. 

Since we cannot make it better 
We excuse the yellow skin. 

Have the capstrings, long and spotless, 
Neatly hang beneath the chin. 

So that you may hold it nicely 
Let each daisy keep its stem. 

Now look at my queer old ladies, 
Here we have a bunch of them. 




67 



FIRST CALL TO BREAKFAST 

When through my bedroom window 
The morning sun shines bright, 

And early daytime noises 

Have chased away the night, 
I hear a noise like **Dad-o." 

And when I can stop dreaming 

Between my blinks I see 
A baby boy in nighties 

Is looking down at me, 

And calling **Dad-ol Dad-ol** 

I am so very sleepy, 

I want another nap — 
But in the white crib yonder 

A lively little chap 

Keeps calling **Dad-oI Dad-o!" 



68 



MOTHER SPECKLE'S LESSON 

Here comes our old speckled hen 
With her pretty little ten; 
Soft and fluffy yellow balls, 
Running every way she calls. 
See, with tender mother zeal, 
How she shakes the yellow meal, 
All the tiny, yellow feet 
Scrambling for something to eat. 
Then away to w^ater pan 
Speckle leads her little clan. 
Cluck! cluck! cluck! aw^ay she goes- 
Pat! pat! follow tiny toes. 
Speckle takes a good, long drink, 
Bright eyes watching every kink. 
Each chick cranes his little neck, 
Tries to drink like Mother Speck. 
Sips as far as he can reach — 
Baby chicks aren't hard to teach. 
Then he raises up his head 
Just as if his thanks he said; 
Each one in his little place 
Waits to say his tiny grace. 



69 



"ALL'S WELL THAT ENDS WELL" 

Once upon a time a little hop toad 

Came hop, hop, hop, along the road. 

He enjoyed the breeze, he enjoyed the sun, 

And hopped along as if it was fun. 

At length he came to a slimy gutter, 

Which put the dear thing in a serious flutter, 

For over this gulf he needs must cross 

To get to a bed of delectable moss. 

He was on his way to a picnic dinner, 

Which if he missed, he'd surely grow thinner. 

He'd forgotten his skates and he couldn't swim, 

And it seemed that the gutter had the best of him. 

But the wise little beast had learned at school 

That if baffled by small things, you're a poor tool. 

So he turned up his trousers, doffed stocking and shoe. 

Courage stamped on his features, he waded straight tl 

With a heart full of gladness and smile of pride 

He just was gaining the opposite side, 

When alas! he stumbled on the shell of an egg 

Slipped in the slime and sprained his leg! 

With suffering intense and a tear-stained face 

He reached the picnic in pitiful case. 

But his friends soon cheered him and wiped his eyes, 

And made him merry with cakes and pies. 

His cousin, the tree frog, loaned him a crutch. 

Then the dear, little toad said it didn't hurt much. 



70 



Thus forced to keep still for the rest of the day, 
Neither tennis nor golf could the sweet creature play; 
And he said to himself he certainly would 
Endeavor real hard to be pious and good. 
If you try to do right, if that is your trend, 
You generally come out all right in the end. 
So it was with the toad — he started for home 
By the very same road by which he had come. 
When he came to the gutter a respectable plank 
Was spanning the chasm to the opposite bank; 
And when he reached home and rang the bell 
Would you believe it — his leg was well! 



IN THE SUMMER TIMi 



Little folks get sunburned 
Like the red, red roses. 

Lots and lots of freckles 
Come out on their noses. 



71 



TOMMY IN THE COUNTRY 

Tommy loves the country 
Out on Uncle's farm. 

Nothing in the City 

Has so great a charm. 

Tommy went to Uncle's, 
Had such glorious fun, 

When the week was over 
Wished it bad just begun! 

Tommy rode the horses. 
Tommy milked the cows. 

And for eggs he hunted 
In the big hay mows. 

Tommy climbed for cherries 

In the cherry trees; 
Tommy watched the bee-hive 

With its busy bees. 

Tommy fed the chickens, 
And the turkeys too. 

Tommy heard the pigeons 
With their gentle coo. 

Tommy helped with harvest, 

Rode upon the hay. 
Rather work with Uncle 

Any time than playl 



72 




TOMMY 



When the week was over 
He went back to town. 

Happy little farmer, 
Like a bunny brown. 



n 



BETTY 

Betty went with Tommy 
When he went away 

Out into the country 
For a week to stay. 

Betty loves the Auntie 
Who, so fair and sweet, 

Drove out to the Station 
Betty girl to meet. 

Betty loves the farmhouse. 
Big and old and gray. 

And the outdoors round it- 
Surely made for play. 

Betty girl went swinging 
In the summer breeze 

In the old swing hanging 
'Neath the apple trees. 

Betty followed Auntie 
All about the place. 

With a pile of questions 
And a happy face. 

Auntie's little shadow 

Where the berries grow. 

Auntie's little shadow 
Where the roses blow. 



74 





BETTY 



Betty got all sunburned, 
Like a little rose, 

And a lot of freckles 
Came out on her nose. 



THE APPLE TREE SWING 

Up so high in the apple tree swing. 
Up so high where the little birds sing; 
Down again to the grassy, green earth. 
Oh, was there ever such joyous mirth! 



75 



PROD 

Watch old Proddie hear us talk. 
"Proddie want to take a walk?" 
Up go Proddie's pretty ears 
If a word like walk she hears. 
Cocks her head upon one side, 
Eyes she opens very wide. 
Wags her tail a tiny mite, 
Telling you she heard all right. 
Runs away then toward the door, 
Then back where she was before. 
Sits beside you — cocks her head — 
"Come," she says, "a walk you said." 
Waiting, anxious, watching steady, 
"Come!" she says "for I am ready." 



CHERRIES ARE RIPE 

Bunch of fine, red cherries. 
Hanging on each ear; 

Great demand for ear-rings 
When cherries are here! 



76 



INTERRUPTED REVERIES 

Upon a nice rug 

Once sat a small bug, 
In the firelight's ruddy glare, 

But his musings were stirred 

By a funny sound heard 
From the round of a cane-seat chair. 

Then a grasshopper came 
And asked him his name, 

And then propounded a riddle. 
'Twas he chirping there 
On the round of the chair. 

But the bug simply said "Oh fiddle!" 



n 



A PAIR OF JAPS 

Shimamura is my Jap, 

He's a funny little chap; 

Takes a lady out to ride 

In a two-wheeled cart and wide. 

Swiftly he can run of course, 

Pulls the cart like any horse. 

Very much he feels the heat 

As he runs along the street. 

So he can't wear many clothes 

And he runs in his bare toes; 

Closely fitting suit of blue, 

Not a sign of any queue; 

Black his hair and smooth and straight. 

And his strength is very great. 

Dressed Kawaya is in taste, 

Yellow sash around her waist, 

Sleeves long-drooping, gown of red. 

And a funny, little head; 

Then a pointed Physche knot. 

And you'd think her very hot 

For she carries over all 

Striped and tiny parasol. 

There she sits within her cart 

Waiting for the man to start. 

Her Jinrikisha is light. 

Black and red and shiny bright, 

Underneath a tiny bell. 

When they're coming you can tell. 



78 



But this whole thing, cart and all, 

Is so very, very small 

That I hold it on my hand. 

Make it go at my command; 

It is just a funny toy 

For a little girl or boy. 



ROLLING MARBLES 

When I was sick in my little white bed, 
Mother put a big pillow behind my head, 
And after my dishes were carried away 
On the neat, little napkin-covered tray, 
I didn't feel anything like so ill 
When I raised my knees to make a high hill. 
And coasted my marbles far down to my toes 
Away down the hill over counterpane snows. 



79 



TRIALS 




A fly was buzzing in the air 

And smelled some very tempting fare, 

But when he tried to taste a bit 

He came near sticking fast to it. 

Beneath the rosebush swinging low, 
A spider, black and w^hite, doth go; 
He swings upon a silken thread 
And every time he bumps his head. 

Old puss came slyly from the house 
To try to catch that tiny mouse, 
And when she thought she could not fail 
The door blew shut on pussy's tail I 

A poor, lone doggy cannot find 
His master, who was good and kind; 
He whines and whines along the streets 
And sniffs at every one he meets. 

A little boy tripped on a stone. 

And far across the grass was thrown; 

He bumped his head and scratched his knee. 

And lost his hat behind a tree. 

A little girl is very sad 
Because the darling doll she had 
With its mamma fell on the stair. 
And smashed its head to pieces there. 



80 



AUTUMN LEAVES 

Little leaves are fluttering, fluttering. 
Downward through the air. 

Little leaves are falling, falling. 
Falling everywhere. 

Autumn leaves grow thicker, thicker, 

Down upon the ground; 
Autumn leaves are rustling, rustling — 

What a pleasant sound! 



CAUGHT IN A SHOWER 

When I was going to school one day. 

My big umbrella blew away, 

And I was afraid I was going to cry. 

And I wondered how I would ever keep dry; 

But when I turned around to see, 

A big man brought it back to me. 



81 



THE DYING PIG 

Last evening when I reached niy home 

From city's dust and din, 
I was narrating all I'd heard 

And telling where I'd been. 

My time had been so very full 

With working all the day 
That I was ready for some fun — 

All children need some play! 

Just then the postman came along, 
And then he rang the bell. 

And what he brought me in the mail 
Is what I'm going to tell. 

A little package bore my name. 
And wrapped up snug and tight, 

I found a box, all round and neat, 
On top a picture bright. 

And lo! within the box I found 

A little, wilted pig! 
And to the sender of this gift 

My thanks are very big. 

There was a very merry time 
When I announced my gift. 

And then with kindly touch essayed 
To give the beast a lift. 



82 



My sympathies are with this pig 
Whose life is only death — 

For I had heard of a poor pig 

Who died for "want of breath." 

And when I blew him up quite fat, 
He turned upon his side, 

And after squealing piteously. 
He passed away and died! 

Nor did he "cross the river*' once, 

But every time I blew 
He raised his piteous voice again 

And straightway waded thru I 

And this is what I now believe — 
No matter how he strives 

There's not a cat in all the world 
Can beat a pig for lives! 



83 



FATHER IS COMING 

Hark! I hear the engine coming — 

Choo-choo, choo-choo, choo-choo, chool 

Bringing Father from the city — 
And its bell is ringing too. 

Choo-choo, choo-choo, choo-choo, choo-choo! 

Out of sight — I cannot see; 
But I hear the door unlatching; 

Father's home to play with me! 



84 



"HIDE THE THIMBLE" 

We were playing "Hide the Thimble" one day, 
When Mother came in and helped us play; 
And we hunted and hunted everywhere. 
On the mantel-piece, table, and every chair; 
We hunted and hunted high and low. 
And every place was as cold as snow; 
Till Brother shouted "Hurrah! Hip! Hip! 
It is hiding on Mother's finger tip!" 



85 



MOTHER'S LAP 



When I have fallen on the floor 

And bumped my head against the door, 

Or stumbled when I didn't see 

And tumbled down and scratched my knee, 

I find where Mother is, and sit 

Up on her lap a little bit. 

There is a lovely snuggling place 
Between her shoulder and her face; 
And when I go back to my play. 
Sometimes I cannot surely say 
Just where I hurt myself you know. 
My head or hand or knee or toe. 




86 



NEAR TO NATURE 



87 



WHAT THE SNOWFLAKES 
SAID 

Sweetest message came today 
From the skies so far away. 

Heavenly Father sent some snow 
Just a little while ago; 

And it told me very true 
That whatever things I do, 

I must keep my spirit bright 

Like the snowflakes soft and white; 

That it is the earthly things 
Spoil the growth of little wings. 

Tho our work may humble be, 
Do it well for God to see. 

People's lives are clean and white 
If their hearts are pure and right. 

Snowflakes dropped a word of love. 
Tiny airplanes from above. 



89 



SONGS OF SPRING 




in the spring 
The robins sing I 
And strong and clear 

1 often hear 
The lark's sweet song 
Most all day long. 
The little wren 
Will come again; 
The bluebirds sing 
So much in spring; 
And I have heard 
A gray cat bird. 

The flaming cardinal tells his dear 
And all the world, that 'spring is herel* 
And pussy willows soft and gray, 
They tell of spring in gentle way. 



90 



TWILIGHT OVER "DAISY HILL" 

When day is fading into night 

We often watch the waning light 

Across the brilliant western sky. 

The chimney swifts come sailing by. 

And now where last the sun was seen, 

Afar thru treetops* wealth of green, 

A golden track is still aglow. 

And * 'Daisy Hill'* is white below. 

As if a snow had tipped the hill, 

While darkness now the valleys fill; 

And listen now! the while we hear 

The wood thrush song so sweet and clear. 



91 



LITTLE JOHN'S SERMON 

Little friend I'm claiming, 

And 1 love him well, 
Where you too, may see him 

I am going to tell. 
Over hill and meadow, 

Where I love to stray, 
1 was gathering flowers 

One bright, sunny day. 

Down a woodland pathway 

As I wandered on. 
Simple in his beauty 

1 found tiny John. 
Modest little fellow. 

Green the suit he wears; 
Jack or Priest in Pulpit 

Is the name he bears. 

There small John is standing, 

Pulpit is the sheath, 
There erect, his tiny 

Sounding-board beneath. 
'Neath his leafy bower 

In the shady wood. 
Does he tell the flowers 

How they may be good? 



92 



Well, now that is asking 

More than I can tell 
Of this so-called preacher 

In the woody dell. 
I heard gentle breezes 

In the branches blow. 
Strains of sweet bird music. 

And the brooklets flow; 

And I stood and listened 

To the wind and bird. 
But Jack-in-the-Pulpit 

Never spoke a word. 
Yet this little preacher 

In the shady wood. 
Taught a little sermon 

That was sound and good; 

There contently living 

In his humble place. 
Well might we learn thru him. 

Much of Christian grace; 
For he glorifieth 

Master thine and mine. 
Just because he humbly 

Letteth his light shine. 



93 



LILY OF THE VALLEY 

When winter winds give place to milder blowing, 

And snows are gone, 
I wander out into the warm spring sunshine 

About the lawn. 

The earth has been in Heavenly Father's keeping 

Thru stormy days, 
And now aweJcens from its winter sleeping 

With sun's warm rays. 

The grass is green upon the slope and terrace, 

And all the air 
Is sweet with tender leaves and opening blossoms — 

A springtime prayer. 

And growing thickly underneath the hedgerow 

Along the street, 
1 find the dainty Lily of the Valley, 

Exceeding sweet. 

Of floral bells in garden, field or meadow, 

That come with spring. 
These lilies are the whitest, purest, sweetest — 

Too sweet to ring. 

The dewdrops might have turned to snowflakes, trembling. 

Upon each stem; 
Two shining leaves, straight-veined and broad, enfolding, 

Protecting them. 



94 



I love the tiny bells with fragrance laden, 
So pure and sweet; 

I love the shining leaves that thickly cluster 
About their feet 

Reminders they of noble lives and holy. 
And pure and sweet. 

Of faithful hearts that patiently keep lowly 
At Jesus* feet. 

Incentives they to pure and holy living, 
In humble place. 

May strength sufficient unto us be given, 

Sufficient grace! 



95 



GLIMPSES OF CLOUDLAND 

In the stillness of the dawning, 
When the world was yet asleep, 

Morning chased away the night-time 
With its mantle dark and deep; 

And the golden sun was struggling 

To illume another day. 
But across the eastern heavens 

Broken cloudland stretched away. 

So he shed his glowing radiance 
Over dappled sky and gray, 

Thus each tiny fleck transforming 
Into rosy brilliance gay. 



Not a breath of air is stirring. 
Empty stillness settles round; 

As the gathering storm approaches 
Falls no murmur of a sound. 

Not the dull, low-hanging rain-clouds 
That obscured the depths of blue. 

Nor the gray snowbank of winter 
That along the southwest grew; 

But a mass of dusky cloud-form 
Heaped in such fantastic way, 

Deep'ning into awful darkness 

Where the streaks of lightning play. 



96 



Lo, once more it is the night-time, 
And the world has gone to sleep. 

Silently the dew is settling 

And the stars their vigils keep. 

High across the southern heavens 
Float great clouds, of sombre hue 

Save the edges, tipped with silver. 

Where the moonlight shineth through; 

And again the night*s pale empress 

Glides into her regal place; 
But before her disk is perfect 

Other clouds have veiled her face. 



From the distant hilltop yonder 
Where the treetops gently sway 

With the breezes of the morning. 
Spread the landscape dim and gray. 

But a gently growing radiance 
Flooded earth and air and sky; 

Round the blue dome to the westward 
Rosy clouds went trooping by. 

Dainty cirri, frail and fleecy. 
Rich with gold and silver, lay 

Where the *'gates of morning" opened 
And let through the *'lord of day.** 



97 



Fresh and sweet the west wind bloweth — 
Earth seems full of prayer and praise, 

Teeming with new life and beauty 
In these early summer days. 

Over all the great sky archirg. 

Loving canopy of blue; 
So intense, and deep, and tender — 

Would that we were half as true I 

Gracefully across it drifting, 

White as freshly fallen snow, 
Rocky cloudlets, grouped or scattered, 

Float on gentle winds that blow. 



Now the hilltop shadows lengthen, 
Sinks the busy earth to rest. 

And a wide expanse of glory 
Deepens in the glowing west. 

One more day in splendor closing; 

Now the red disk sinks from sight; 
Scattered patches, gold and scarlet. 

Even yet are burning bright. 

From horizon line to zenith 
As the glory mounts on high, 

Clouds in size and color varied. 
Form a ladder up the sky. 



98 



When these earthly scenes have vanished. 
And this earthly course is run, 

With its sorrows, clouds and conflicts. 
May it please the Heavenly One, 

In His tender love and mercy. 

Then to gather to His fold. 
Straying hearts that longed to follow 

Upward to the gates of gold, 

Where the cloudless morning b.reaketh 

And the shadows flee away. 
Where no light of sun is needed. 

Everlasting, perfect day! 



99 



MACKINAC 

O oftentimes my thoughts go back 
Quite tenderly to Mackinac, 

Whose Hmestone cliffs of glistening white 
Abruptly rise to towering height; 

And where the waters splash and roar, 
A long, white road around the shore; 

And smell of pines and healthful breeze. 
And picturesque, dark cedar trees; 

And glow of sunset tinteth gay 
The varied sails about the bay; 

And there the twilights softly fall 
Exquisite coloring covering all; 

And old fort wall in zigzag white 
Is sharply seen thru coming night. 

So thru the years my thoughts turn back 
To pleasant Isle of Mackinac. 



100 



OUR GREAT ATLANTIC 

Wondrous deep, that only endeth 
Where the blue sky downward bendethi 
Splendid breakers rising, curling. 
Falling, dashing, thundering, whirling, 
Mighty mass of restless motion 
Is the noisy, rolling ocean. 

Watery plain in sunlight glimmering. 
Curves and hollows quivering, shimmering. 
Emerald ridges tipped with whiteness, 
Spray and foam of feathery lightness, 
Mighty mass of ceaseless motion 
Is the beautiful, great ocean. 



101 



A HYMN FROM NATURE 

When we gather into stillness 

On the Sabbath day, 
In our quiet place of worship, 

From the world away; 

Strains of sweetest birdsong music 

From the maples pour. 
In the early summer weather 

Thru the open -door. 

Wood thrush song, content and thankful. 

Fit for Sabbath days, 
Song of quiet, sweet assurance, 

Song of prayer and praise. 

Only music fit for worship 

Falls upon the ear 
When God's handiwork He tuneth 

To the heavenly sphere. 

Tho we settle into silence 

On our meeting day. 
Varied trials, varied burdens. 

On our spirits weigh. 

Thoughts of friends and thoughts of pleasure. 

Thoughts of work and care, 
In our quiet hour of worship 

Claim too great a share. 



102 



Then upon the silence ringing. 
Clear and sweet and strong, 

Leading us to Him Who made it, 
Comes the thrush's song. 

Comes a message from the maples 
Thru the Master's birds — 

Eloquent as any sermon. 
Clear as any words. 

In the nature world about us. 

In the field and wood, 
Everywhere are little helpers, 

Ministers of good. 

May the song thy life is singing 

Ever thankful be. 
There will be, where much is given. 

Much required of thee. 

Tho thy life hold much of suffering. 
Still, thru darkened days, 

Strive to feel a sweet assurance, 
Song of prayer and praise. 



103 



AN AUTUMN SUNSET 

The sun sank below the horizon, 
Fast fading away from sight; 

No longer the hills and the valleys 
Were bathed in its golden light. 

But over the wide, western heavens 

Extended a golden glow. 
And marked with the richest of splendor 

The spot where the sun sank low. 

Above, tiny cloudlets were floating. 
All daintily tipped with gold; 

And still farther up toward the zenith, 
Clouds darker and heavier, rolled. 

Around me the glories of autumn 

Beginning to fade and die; 
Above, clouds majestically lovely 

Against the serene, blue sky. 

I stood and looked long at the heavens 
As nature grew hushed and still. 

And shadows of evening were gathering 
And creeping o'er vale and hill. 

I thought of the day that was slipping 

Away to the silent past. 
Returning to Him Who had sent it. 

With majesty crowned at last. 



104 



I saw how the deepest of wisdom 
Our journey thru life has planned, 

How even the clouds that beset us 
Are sent from our Father's hand. 

Methought should I live to life's autumn, 
The spring and the summer past, 

I would such a glorious sunset 
My portion might be at last. 

And so as I looked at the heavens 

And thought of the storms to come, 

I asked for enough clouds to lead me 
Just sweetly and safely home. 



105 



ROSES 

When cloudless is the summer sky 

And morning hours are early, 
Before the sun has risen high, 

And dewdrops still are pearly; 
How sweet the roses pink and white 

Upon the terrace growing, 
I gather clusters with delight 

With dewy freshness glowing. 

When darkness covers all the land • 

And bright the stars are shining, 
We walk together hand in hand 

Where woodbine sweet is twining; 
And rose leaves flutter to our feet 

Tho scarce a breeze is blowing. 
And then the sweetness is so sweet 

Where roses white are growing. 

When winter skies are cold and gray 

Then roses fresh are cheery 
As on my bed day after day 

I'm lying weak and weary; 
But sweet when thou hast offered them- 

Then how I love the roses, 
Each fragrant bud and leafy stem 

Thy love for me discloses. 



106 



And roses I shall not forget 

Are laid with things I treasure, 
A trace of fragrance lingering yet 

And sweet beyond all measure. 
And some were pink and some were white 

Among my letters olden, 
But o'er them all the tender light 

Of memory, makes them golden. 



107 



GLIMPSES OF BLUE 

A flutter of birds, 

A gay butterfly, 
The grace of a flower, 

A glimpse of the sky, 
O these are worth while, 

These lead us above. 
For blue is for happiness 

And blue is for love. 



108 



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